MediaTek announces the release of a new WiMAX Forum Wave2 chip, MT7118 for USB dongles, handsets, and other embedded devices. Announced at the same time is a prototype of low cost WiMAX and GSM EDGE dual mode phone, produced by a MediaTek handset partner. This design is based on MediaTek’s WiMAX chip and EDGE baseband processor.

This is one of the most cost optimized WiMAX handsets in the market today, according to the company. It enables voice over EDGE network and voice/data over WiMAX network, while the USB port of the phone can be used for data connectivity with laptops. It also features a 2.8 inch touch screen and 5M pixel camera. The VoIP engine inside the phone has gone through stringent IOT and field trials for over 4
years, making it a trusted and risk free dual-mode handset.

MediaTek brings its expertise in GSM and software directly into the handset to offer
a turnkey solution for operators. With BOM of less than US$100, this is a truly cost effective solution, without compromising quality and performance, which is essential to enable mobile WiMAX applications in emerging markets.